Karnataka, located in the heart of southern India, is one of the richest states in terms of biodiversity. With lush Western Ghats, dense forests, and vast grasslands, the state is home to five major national parks that protect endangered species like the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, Indian leopard, and lion-tailed macaque.
These parks are top destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers.
List of National Parks in Karnataka
| National Park Name | Location | Area (km²) | Established |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bandipur National Park | Chamarajanagar District | 868 | 1974 |
| Nagarhole National Park | Kodagu & Mysuru | 643 | 1988 |
| Bannerghatta National Park | Bengaluru Urban | 104.27 | 1971 |
| Kudremukh National Park | Chikkamagaluru | 600.57 | 1987 |
| Anshi (Kali) National Park | Uttara Kannada | 339.9 | 1987 |
📌 Bandipur and Nagarhole are part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized global biodiversity hotspot.
1. Bandipur National Park
Location: Chamarajanagar District
Area: 868 km²
Bandipur is one of India’s most famous tiger reserves and a key part of Project Tiger.
Highlights:
Home to tigers, elephants, leopards, and over 200 bird species.
Ideal for jeep safaris and guided forest tours.
Famous for its scenic forest drives and wildlife corridors.
Visitor Information:
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Nearest City: Mysuru (80 km), Bengaluru (220 km)
Safari Booking: Book Now (Official Website)
2. Nagarhole National Park
Location: Kodagu & Mysuru
Area: 643 km²
Nagarhole, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate.
Highlights:
Rich in teak and rosewood forests.
Home to elephants, gaurs, tigers, leopards, and crocodiles.
Excellent for boat safaris on Kabini River.
Visitor Information:
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Safari Booking: https://www.karnatakaforest.gov.in
3. Bannerghatta National Park
Location: Bengaluru Urban
Area: 104.27 km²
One of the most accessible national parks in India, located just outside Bengaluru city.
Highlights:
Elephant safari and butterfly park.
Ideal for families and day trips.
Houses a zoo, rescue center, and nature camp.
Visitor Information:
Best Time to Visit: October to June
Online Tickets: Book Now (Official Website)
4. Kudremukh National Park
Location: Chikkamagaluru
Area: 600.57 km²
Kudremukh is famous for its rolling hills, shola forests, and rich biodiversity.
Highlights:
Ideal for trekking and birdwatching.
Known for rare orchids and lion-tailed macaques.
Offers breathtaking views and waterfalls.
Visitor Information:
Best Time to Visit: November to May
Entry with permits only.
5. Anshi (Kali) National Park
Location: Uttara Kannada
Area: 339.9 km²
This park forms part of the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and is known for its dense evergreen forests.
Highlights:
Habitat for black panthers, tigers, hornbills, and king cobras.
Ideal for river rafting, jungle treks, and safaris.
Visitor Information:
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Access through Dandeli.
Best Time to Visit National Parks in Karnataka
| Season | Months | Highlights |
| Winter | October – March | Pleasant weather, ideal for safaris and treks |
| Summer | April – June | Good for wildlife sightings |
| Monsoon | July – September | Green landscapes, but some parks may have limited access |
How to Reach
By Air: Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Hubballi are major airports.
By Train: Mysuru, Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Karwar are well connected by rail.
By Road: Excellent road connectivity from major Karnataka cities.
Accommodation Options
Eco lodges and government guesthouses near Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Dandeli.
Resorts and hotels near Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Chikkamagaluru.
Book official forest stays here 👉 Book Now (Official Website)
Jungle Safari & Activities
Jeep Safaris – Bandipur, Nagarhole & Anshi
Boat Safari – Kabini River (Nagarhole)
Elephant Safari – Bannerghatta
Trekking – Kudremukh trails
Wildlife Photography – All major parks
✅ Tip: Always book jungle safaris through official portals to ensure safety and support conservation.
Weekend Trip Ideas from Bengaluru & Mysuru
From Bengaluru: Bannerghatta (1 day), Bandipur (2 days), Nagarhole (2–3 days)
From Mysuru: Bandipur and Nagarhole are perfect for weekend getaways.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many national parks are in Karnataka?
There are 5 national parks in Karnataka: Bandipur, Nagarhole, Bannerghatta, Kudremukh, and Anshi.
Which is the largest national park in Karnataka?
Bandipur National Park is the largest, covering 868 km².
Which national park is closest to Bengaluru?
Bannerghatta National Park is just 22 km from Bengaluru.
Are jungle safaris available?
Yes, jungle safaris are available at Bandipur, Nagarhole, Bannerghatta, and Anshi.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Q: Which is the best time to visit Karnataka national parks?
A: October to March offers the best weather for safaris and wildlife sightings.
Q: Can families visit these national parks?
A: Yes, parks like Bannerghatta and Bandipur are perfect for families.
Q: Are trekking options available?
A: Yes, Kudremukh National Park is popular for nature treks and birdwatching.
Conclusion
Karnataka’s national parks offer diverse wildlife experiences, from tiger safaris at Bandipur to scenic treks at Kudremukh. These protected areas are perfect for eco-tourism, jungle adventures, and weekend getaways.
Exploring these national parks supports wildlife conservation and offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature.
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